Lex Witness recently struck a conversation with Prof. (Dr.) V. Balakista Reddy, Professor & Dean School of Law, Mahindra University. We encapsulate the essence of Prof. Reddy’s significant contributions to the legal field as well as his roles as an educator, leader, and innovator. Have an interesting read through.

Prof. (Dr.) V Balakista Reddy served as a Professor of International Law and also held various leadership positions at NALSAR University of Law, Hyderabad, including the Directorship of the Centre for Aerospace and Defence Laws (CADL) and the Centre for Tribal and Land Rights (CTLR). He was also the LL.M Course Coordinator for International Trade and Business Law (ITBL) at NALSAR. Notably, he was the former Vice-Chancellor and Registrar of NALSAR University of Law for an impressive eight plus years

His academic journey began with an LL.M in International Law from Osmania University, followed by a M. Phil. and Ph.D. in International Air and Space Law from Jawaharlal Nehru University (JNU), New Delhi. With over 30 years of teaching and research experience, his expertise in International Law earned him several prestigious accolades, including the Meritorious State Teachers Award from the Higher Education Department, Government of Telangana, and NALSAR’s Excellence in Research Award for outstanding publications. He is globally recognized for his work in the field of International Air and Space Law and has presented papers at prestigious national and international forums, including the United Nations. He played a crucial role in bringing the Nobel Peace Prize Award Winning Institute of International Law to NALSAR for its 78th Session, a first in India and second in Asia in 2017. Besides his academic pursuits, he has been actively involved in various institutions and universities abroad as a visiting faculty, contributing to the dissemination of legal knowledge internationally. Notably, he has been associated with institutes like Leiden University, McGill University, University of Cologne, and more.

As the Director of the Centre for Aerospace and Defence Laws (CADL), he has pioneered innovative courses in aviation, space, defence, and maritime laws to address the growing demands in these sectors. He also played a key role in drafting various legislations for the Indian government and the states of Telangana and Andhra Pradesh. His impact has been extended beyond academics, as he actively organized conferences, workshops, and training programs to promote legal education and development in various sectors. He also supervised numerous Ph.D., M.Phil., and LL.M. students, helping them excel in their academic pursuits. Under his leadership as the Registrar of NALSAR, the university’s infrastructure expanded significantly, and he played a vital role in securing increased annual grants from the Telangana Government. Apart from his teaching and administrative roles, he is an accomplished author, with several internationally acclaimed books in International law including Air and Space Law to his credit. He also serves as the Editor-in-Chief of multiple legal journals,

including the Indian Journal of Air and Space Law and the M.K. Nambyar SAARC Law Journal. Throughout his academic journey, he has demonstrated unwavering dedication to legal education, research, and administration. His contributions to the field of International Law and his commitment to nurturing students have established him as a respected figure in the legal community both in India and abroad

After Joining Mahindra University as the Dean-School of Law, he also organised the three mega-events named, Pre-Conference Workshop on “Data Governance in the Age of Artificial Intelligence”, Three-Day International Law and Technology Conference on “Revolutionary Technologies and Evolutionary Laws: Challenges and Opportunities” and the 1st MU International Moot Court Competition from 29th Feb. -3rd March, 2024.